A ‘components’ model of addiction within a biopsychosocial framework

Reliability and validity of the Game Addiction Scale in Malaysian Adolescents

OBJECTIVES

Problematic gaming behavior has been an issue in many countries, raising the need for assessment tools. The Game Addiction Scale for Adolescents (GASA) by Lemmens et al. is widely used for assessing game addiction and has been adopted for use in various countries. The GASA consists of 21 items covering several criteria of game addiction: salience, tolerance, mood modification, relapse, withdrawal, conflict, and problems. The present study aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of the GASA when applied to Malaysian adolescents.

METHODS

The study was conducted in two phases (reliability assessment for phase 1 and validity assessment for phase 2). The Malay version of the Game Addiction Scale was created using a forward-translation procedure with the help of panelists consisting of researchers and educators from the fields of Psychology, Medicine, and Education to translate from English to Malay. The participants of the study were presented with both versions (Malay and English) during the data collection process. The study checked content validity with the help of 33 panelists and reliability based on the scores of 116 participants who spent at least 1 h and up to 6 h per week playing games.

RESULTS

The reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha and provided high reliability ranging from 0.671 to 0.903 for all criteria. All criteria scored higher than 0.8 except for relapse (α=0.788) and problems (α=0.671) criteria, indicating that the instrument provides high reliability. The findings from the study show acceptable content validity with high I-CVI values ranging from 0.73 to 0.94 and an S-CVI/Ave value of 0.80. Internal consistency was excellent (α=0.949) and the Content Validity Index (I-CVI) was high for most items.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that GASA is suitable for application among adolescents in Malaysia.

The Bergen-Yale Sexual Addiction Scale (BYSAS): Longitudinal Measurement Invariance Across a Two-Year Interval

The Bergen-Yale Sexual Addiction Scale (BYSAS; [1]) is arguably the most popular questionnaire at present for assessing sex addiction. Employing Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and treating item scores as ordered categorical, we applied Weighted Least Square Mean and Variance Adjusted Chi-Square (WLSMV) extraction to investigate the longitudinal measurement and structural invariance of ratings on the BYSAS among 276 adults (mean = 31.86 years; SD = 9.94 years; 71% male) over a two-year period, with ratings at three yearly intervals. Overall, there was support for configural invariance, full loading, full threshold, the full unique factor invariance; and all structural (latent variances and covariances) components. Additionally, there was no difference in latent mean scores across the three-time points. The psychometric and practical implications of the findings are discussed.

The association between digital addiction and interpersonal relationships: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Digital addiction (DA) has been identified as an emerging public health problem worldwide. However, the extent and direction of the association between DA and interpersonal relationships (IRs) are unknown. Does DA have adverse effects on IRs, and how credible is the evidence for this association in published analyses of real-world data? Using the PRISMA method, we conducted a meta-analysis to quantitatively synthesize the results of the relevant studies and obtain reliable effect size estimates and performed an analysis of moderating factors. A systematic literature search identified 98 studies involving 134,593 participants and 99 effect sizes. A significant negative association was observed between DA and IRs. Importantly, our meta-analysis revealed that the DA subtype has no significant moderating effect on IRs, suggesting that combining numerous categories of DA rather than focusing on specific forms of DA may be appropriate for understanding the relationship between DA and IRs. Relative to the IR subtype, the association between DA and offline relationships is significant and negative, whereas the association between DA and online relationships is significant and positive. The strength of the relationship is also influenced by the participants' sex ratio, educational level, and measurement tools. These results may help resolve the disagreement over the magnitude and direction of the association between DA and IRs and have potential implications for the treatment of DA.

Social media misuse explained by emotion dysregulation and self-concept: an ecological momentary assessment approach

Studies suggested that emotion dysregulation and identity processes are involved in social media (SM) misuse, even if their proximal role has not been investigated. Previous studies rarely discriminated between specific activities or between types of SM. We recruited 50 young adults and implemented a momentary ecological assessment measurement. Four times by day, during seven days, we measured SM use, frequency of several activities on SM, emotion dysregulation, distress and clarity of self-concept. Daily time spent on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok were retrieved from devices. Intradaily changes in emotion dysregulation and clarity of self-concept predict changes in SM addiction symptoms and frequency of use according to the type of activity. Daily changes in time spent on SM were not predicted by emotion dysregulation, distress and self-concept clarity. Findings suggest that emotion dysregulation and poor self-concept clarity are proximal risk factors for SM misuse.

Excessive internet use among Finnish young people between 2017 and 2021 and the effect of COVID-19

PURPOSE

An increase in excessive Internet use (EIU) among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic was suggested in many studies. However, these studies were mostly based on cross-sectional and/or unrepresentative samples.

METHODS

Using data from a nationwide Finnish school survey in the years 2017, 2019 and 2021 (N = 450,864; aged 13-20 years), changes in the prevalence of EIU (EIUS, 5-item) were assessed. The effects of COVID-19 (year 2021 vs. 2017/2019 combined) and linear trend were analyzed in logistic regression models. Models were adjusted for loneliness, depression, anxiety, and sociodemographic factors.

RESULTS

Among males, EIU prevalence varied minimally (7.8-8.1%) from 2017 to 2021. Among females, the prevalence increased from 6.8 to 11.7% and the effect of COVID-19 was significant (OR = 1.53; p < 0.001). Including the linear trend in the model turned the COVID-19 effect on EIU among females non-significant (p = 0.625), whereas the trend was significant (OR = 1.17; p < 0.001). Adjusting the models with mental health-related factors attenuated the effect of COVID-19 to some extent, but not the effect of linear trend.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a sex difference in the way the prevalence of EIU developed from 2017 to 2021 among Finnish adolescents. In males, there was no indication of increased prevalence of EIU and among females, while the effect of COVID-19 was first found, it was also suggested to be a product of a trend already started before the COVID-19 pandemic. These results are in contrast with some earlier studies suggesting an effect of COVID-19 on EIU.

Sense of Belonging at School and on Social Media in Adolescence: Associations with Educational Achievement and Psychosocial Maladjustment

Belongingness is a key factor in the psychological development and school adjustment of children and adolescents. Going beyond the existing literature, the present study evaluated the association between two sources of belongingness, namely sense of belonging at school (SOBAS) and on social media (SOBOSM), and both psychological maladjustment and educational achievement. Sample consisted of 698 early-to-late adolescents (52.3% female, mean age = 13.79 ± 2.09). Both SOBAS and SOBOSM showed negative direct associations with psychological maladjustment. SOBOSM showed a negative direct association with educational achievement. Social media addiction mediated the links between both SOBAS and SOBOSM and psychological maladjustment and education achievement. Overall, findings suggest that adolescents reporting high sense of belonging both at school and on social media may at lower risk for psychological maladjustment. However, adolescents reporting low SOBAS and high SOBOSM may also be a greater risk of SMA, possibly impacting their psychological health and school adjustement.

The symptom network of internet gaming addiction, depression, and anxiety among children and adolescents

Internet gaming addiction (IGA), depression, and anxiety are significant issues among children and adolescents, with substantial social implications. Understanding the specific characteristics of this relationship is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. The present study employed network analysis to explore the symptom network of IGA, depression, and anxiety among 1,548 Chinese children and adolescents. The results showed that the core symptoms of IGA among children and adolescents were "tolerance", "withdrawal", and "conflict". There was no significant gender difference in the structure, global strength, and core symptoms of IGA. Although there were no significant differences in the structure of the symptom network of IGA among children and adolescents of different ages, there were significant differences in global strength and some core symptoms ("conflict"). The core symptoms of the comorbidity of IGA, depression, and anxiety in children and adolescents included "feeling downhearted and blue", "breathing difficulty", "difficult to work up the initiative to do things", and "withdrawal". The comorbidity network did not show significant gender and age differences in network structure, but there were significant gender differences in global strength. Furthermore, there were significant gender and age differences in some core symptoms. The social impact of these findings is profound, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in schools and communities to address IGA and its comorbidities. Our results also suggest that interventions should be tailored to consider gender and age differences to maximize effectiveness.

Psychosocial factors behind addiction-a six-wave longitudinal comparison of at-risk gambling and drinking

AIMS

Research indicates that shared and specific underlying factors influence different addictions, sometimes resulting in co-occurring problems. The evidence concerning risk and protective factors for gambling and alcohol addiction, along with their co-occurrence, remains ambiguous. To address this gap, this study will conduct longitudinal research to examine the factors associated with at-risk behaviours over time.

METHODS

We utilize a sample of 18- to 75-year-old participants (N = 1530) from Finland. Participants were surveyed every six months between 2021 and 2023, covering six rounds of data collection (in total 6650 observations). Measures included the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test and the Problem Gambling Severity Index. The analysis used multilevel regression models to investigate risk and protective factors over time.

RESULTS

Based on population-average models, younger age and being a man were associated with all examined dependent variables. Psychological distress, a sense of belonging to family and friends, and belonging to an online community were associated with at-risk gambling. At-risk drinking was associated with education and income, marital status, and the sense of belonging to family and friends. Being in debt enforcement, education, and psychological distress were associated with the co-occurrence of the two addictive behaviours. The fixed effects highlighted the importance of psychological distress in the development of co-occurring gambling and drinking problems.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that partly different sociodemographic and psychosocial factors are important underlying contributors to alcohol and gambling problems. Psychological distress is a particularly crucial factor predicting co-occurring at-risk gambling and drinking, indicating that co-occurrence is accompanied by psychological burden.

Associations of generalized anxiety and social anxiety symptoms with sleep duration, amount of intense exercise, and excessive internet use among adolescents

BACKGROUND

Among adolescents, symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD) are not only clinically significant but also continuingly increasing. During adolescence, individuals begin to establish distinct, self-determined lifestyle patterns. This study seeks to identify the associations between such lifestyle factors and the prevalence of GAD and SAD symptoms.

METHODS

The analyzable sample was based on a cross-sectional, nationally representative survey of Finnish 14-18 year old students from comprehensive schools, general upper secondary schools, and vocational institutions. The sample consisted of 60,252 boys and 71,118 girls, with the mean age of 16.05 years (standard deviation 1.06). Symptoms were identified using the GAD-7 (cutpoint of 10), the Mini-SPIN (cutpoint of 6), and the PHQ-2 (cutpoint of 3). Logistic regression models for both GAD and SAD symptoms were stratified by comorbidity group variables.

RESULTS

GAD symptoms were closely related to excessive internet use and decreased sleep duration among adolescents, regardless of comorbidity with depression or SAD. SAD symptoms were associated with excessive internet use and a lack of intense exercise, independent of comorbid depression or GAD.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings underscore the importance of considering lifestyle factors when developing interventions to mitigate GAD and SAD symptoms in adolescents. Interventions and policy recommendations aiming at improving adolescents' health behaviour and mental health should take into account the intertwining of these factors.

Beyond the 9-to-5 grind: workaholism and its potential influence on human health and disease

Workaholism is often considered a conventional word in the general population to portray those individuals who continuously work and find it challenging not to work. It is usually described as a work addiction and operationalized as a compulsive need to work excessively hard. However, the concept of workaholism remains poorly understood. The first objective of this review is to define workaholism, followed by its related concepts, and how it is assessed. Notably, we distinguish workaholism from work addiction and work engagement. Next, we review the current research literature, largely from the last two decades, to suggest that workaholism contributes toward a wide range of health outcomes, ranging from sleep to stress. In particular, we focus on evidence suggesting that workaholism may be associated with differing risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and potentially other related metabolic abnormalities. Finally, we discuss potential limitations of the existing literature on workaholism, and we provide future directions for this emerging field. Specifically, we underscore the need to link workaholism with more biomarkers of metabolic diseases, such as those related to inflammation, the gut microbiome, and glucose homeostasis. In addition, we highlight the importance of establishing causality between workaholism and poor health outcomes, such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.

The Relationship Between Social Media Addiction and Perceived Stress in Adolescents

PURPOSE

The study was conducted to determine the relationship between social media addiction and perceived stress in adolescents.

METHOD

The study was conducted in a descriptive and cross-sectional design between September and December 2022 in secondary education institutions of the Provincial Directorate of National Education in a city center in eastern Turkey. The sample of the study consisted of a total of 716 adolescents who were studying in the ninth grade (145), 10th grade (198), 11th grade (216), and 12th grade (157) who met the inclusion criteria of the study at the time the study was conducted. The sample comprised individuals with diverse sociodemographic characteristics, including ages, genders, school success levels, parents' education levels, parents' job status, socioeconomic status, time spent on daily social media, and purposes of social media use of the adolescents. The "Sociodemographic Characteristics Form," "Social Media Addiction Scale for Adolescents (SMASA)," and "Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)" were used as the data collection tools. Ethical principles were fulfilled in the study.

RESULTS

It was found that the average age of the adolescents who participated in the study was 15.71 ± 1.22, 58.1% were females, 41.1% had good school success, 90.5% had a mobile phone, 90.2% used WhatsApp, 56.8% said that their daily social media use time was between 1 and 3 h, and 64% said that their purpose of using social media was for entertainment and leisure. The mean SMASA score was 18.49 ± 6.98, and the mean PSS score was 42.11 ± 7.54. It was found in the study that the mother's employment status, phone ownership status, use of Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Snapchat, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn accounts, daily social media use, time and purposes of using social media affected the mean SMASA score. Age, gender, school success, use of Instagram and Snapchat accounts, daily social media use time, and purposes of using social media affected the mean PSS score (p < 0.05). As a result of the study, a positive and low-level significant relationship was detected between social media addiction and perceived stress levels (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

As the levels of social media addiction increase in adolescents, the perceived stress levels also increase. It was also found that some variables affected the social media addiction and perceived stress levels of adolescents.

Weak and interfered self-control fails to block problematic mobile phone use: The role of craving and desire thinking

Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) has become a worldwide phenomenon with negative impacts on adolescents' daily lives. While self-control has been shown to be related to PMPU, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of this association. Based on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution model and the strength model of self-control, the current study aims to examine the association between self-control and PMPU, to identify the indirect role of craving, and to determine whether and how the two components of desire thinking exert differential moderating effects. A sample of 1424 adolescents was recruited to complete the scales of self-control, craving, desire thinking, and PMPU. The results suggested that self-control was indirectly associated with PMPU through craving. Furthermore, this indirect association was moderated by verbal perseveration, rather than imaginal prefiguration. Specifically, the indirect association was stronger for adolescents with higher verbal perseveration. The findings deepen our understanding of how self-control is related to PMPU and distinguish the effects of two components of desire thinking among adolescents.

The associations between levels of inattention/hyperactivity and social media addiction among young adults: The mediating role of emotional regulation strategies in self-blame and blaming others

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder beginning in childhood and often extending into adulthood. ADHD may negatively impact emotional regulation and cause addictive behaviors such as social media addiction. The present study investigated the association of ADHD symptoms (i.e., attention deficit [AD] and hyperactivity/impulsivity [HI]) with social media addiction among young adults. The mediating effect of internalizing and externalizing emotional regulation (i.e., self-blame [SB] and blaming others [BO]) were examined. Participants (n = 96; mean age = 19.9 years [SD = 2.07]) comprising 35 individuals with probable ADHD and 61 individuals who did not have ADHD completed measures assessing social media addiction, ADHD symptoms, and emotional regulation strategies. Results of Hayes' Process Micro showed that both ADHD symptoms were significantly positively associated with social media addiction (standardized coefficient [β] = 0.30 and 0.38 for AD and HI) and emotional regulation strategies (β = 0.38 and 0.27 for AD to SB and BO, β = 0.23 and 0.28 for HI to SB and BO). In addition, BO was a significant mediator in the association between AD and social media addiction (β = 0.07, 95 % confidence interval = 0.003, 0.11). The results suggest that externalizing emotional regulation may mediate the association between symptoms of AD and social media addiction. It is recommended that individuals with probable ADHD should focus on improving self-awareness (such as mindfulness), developing resilience skills, and/or incorporating positive coping strategies (such as physical activity) to reduce the negative impacts derived from symptoms of ADHD.

Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale: Psychometric Evidence Across Nine Asian Regions Using Advanced Analytic Methods

INTRODUCTION

A smartphone is a device with various functions, including wifi, application functions, mobile networks, ease of mobility, and the capability of using mobile data. Because of the aforementioned functions, people may use smartphones frequently. The Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale (SABAS) is a six-item questionnaire assessing smartphone addiction with promising psychometric properties. However, it is unclear if the SABAS possesses the strong psychometric properties across Asian regions. The present study aimed to examine the factor structure of the SABAS across nine Asian regions.

METHODS

Using datasets collected from Asian regions of Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, data from 10,397 participants (mean age = 22.40 years; 44.8% men) were used for analyses. All participants completed the SABAS using an online survey or paper-and-pencil mode.

RESULTS

Findings from confirmatory factor analysis, Rasch analysis, and network analysis all indicate a one-factor structure for the SABAS. Moreover, the one-factor structure of the SABAS was measurement invariant across age (21 years or less vs. above 21 years) and gender (men vs. women) in metric, scalar, and strict invariance. The one-factor structure was invariant across regions in metric but not scalar or strict invariance.

CONCLUSION

The present study findings showed that the SABAS possesses a one-factor structure across nine Asian regions; however, noninvariant findings in scalar and strict levels indicate that people in the nine Asian regions may interpret the importance of each SABAS item differently. Age group and gender group comparisons are comparable because of the invariance evidence for the SABAS found in the present study. However, cautions should be made when comparing SABAS scores across Asian regions.

Hikikomori in the Middle East: The role of problematic gaming, social media use, and loneliness

Hikikomori, a form of severe social withdrawal has been found to be associated with behavioral addictions such as gaming addiction and problematic social media use (PSMU). Since literature related to hikikomori is lacking in the Middle East, this study aimed to determine whether there are significant differences in hikikomori-like traits between two different types of social media users and gamers and investigate loneliness as a potential mediator between hikikomori and the two types of problematic behaviors. A cross-sectional, correlational design was employed, collecting a final sample of 220 participants residing in Middle Eastern countries using a mixture of convenience and snowball sampling. Results showed that passive social media users demonstrated significantly greater hikikomori-like traits compared to active users. Furthermore, hikikomori-like traits exhibited significant positive associations with problematic gaming, PSMU, and loneliness. Two separate mediation analyses, the first with PSMU and a second with problematic gaming as predictors, revealed that loneliness acted as a significant mediator between both these problematic behaviors and hikikomori-like traits.

Exploring Gender Differences in Internet Addiction and Psychological Factors: A Study in a Spanish Sample

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Internet addiction (IA) and related behaviors, such as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and social media addiction (SMA), have gained increasing research attention. Studies show gender differences, with males more likely to develop gaming-related addictions and females more prone to social media and phubbing behaviors. This study aimed to explore gender differences in Internet addiction and related behaviors in a Spanish sample, with the goal of identifying predictors and gender-specific patterns of IA.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study with 585 participants (265 male, 320 female) aged 18 to 35 years (M = 22.11, SD = 3.08). Data were collected using standardized questionnaires to assess IA, IGD, SMA, phubbing, Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), emotional dysregulation, personality traits, and prosociality. Correlation and regression analyses were used to identify gender-specific predictors of IA.

RESULTS

Males exhibited significantly higher scores for IA and IGD, while females showed higher scores for SMA and the "phone obsession" dimension of phubbing. No significant gender differences were found in the "communication disturbance" dimension of phubbing or in FoMO. Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between IA and psychological as well as technological variables. Gender-specific predictors of IA included social media engagement and emotional regulation for females, while gaming behaviors and communication patterns were more relevant for males.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight gender differences in IA, suggesting that tailored interventions should address unique online behaviors and emotional regulation challenges in males and females. Future research should refine gender-specific patterns to develop more effective, targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

The gaming disorder test and gaming disorder scale for adolescents: translation and validation among Vietnamese young adults

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that the Gaming Disorder Test (GDT) and Gaming Disorder Scale for Adolescents (GADIS-A) have promising validity and reliability when assessing symptoms of gaming disorder among young adults. However, validity and reliability properties of the two scales have not been established among a Vietnamese population.

OBJECTIVE

The present study translated the GDT and GADIS-A into Vietnamese and examined their factor structures, measurement invariance, convergent validity, concurrent validity, and divergent validity among university students.

METHODS

A total of 610 young adults (mean age = 21.09 years; 63.4% females) were recruited using convenience sampling and who completed a paper-and-pencil survey between April and June 2023. All participants completed a demographic questionnaire, GDT, GADIS-A, and six standardized scales related to gaming disorder, social media addiction, smartphone addiction, and psychological distress. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), internal consistency testing, and Pearson's correlations were performed.

RESULTS

CFA showed that the GDT had a one-factor structure and the GADIS-A had a two-factor structure. The internal consistency was excellent for both scales among this population. Moreover, both GDT and GADIS-A showed convergent, concurrent, and divergent validity with other standardized scales.

CONCLUSION

The Vietnamese versions of the GDT and GADIS-A have good psychometrics, which may be utilized in future research regarding gaming disorder among Vietnamese populations.

Investigating mood-modification, withdrawal, and sensitization in compulsive sexual behaviour

Background and aims

Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (CSB), defined as a persistent failure to control repetitive sexual impulses, has been discussed as a pathological phenomenon for centuries. Various terms, such as excessive sexual behaviour, hyper-sexuality, compulsive sexual behaviour disorder (CSBD), or sexual addiction (SA), have been used to describe it, contributing to ongoing debates about its theoretical framework. The following three studies aim to empirically assess whether CSB exhibits key elements of behavioural addiction (mood-modification, sensitization/tolerance, and withdrawal).

Method

Three studies, involving participants with and without CSB, were conducted. The mood-modification hypothesis was tested by exposing participants to short films inducing positive, negative, and emotionally neutral moods, followed by an evaluation of their craving for pornography. To test the sensitization hypothesis, participants viewed short films with varying levels of explicit sexual stimuli, and their level of actual wanting and liking were assessed through self-reports. For the withdrawal hypothesis, participants underwent a 10-day sexual abstinence, with self-reports of various symptoms, collected on pre-intervention, 3rd, 7th, and 10th days.

Results

Contrary to previous studies of addiction, CSB participants didn't show increased craving to mood induction and negative mood actually decreased craving for pornography. Secondly, they showed wanting to explicit sexual stimuli although it was not increased with explicitness. Finally, they demonstrated reduced withdrawal symptom during abstinence.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide conflicting results concerning the model of behavioural addiction. There is supporting evidence for wanting in response to explicit pornography stimuli although it was not associated with increased explicitness. There is also evidence for reduced withdrawal during abstinence. Finally, there was no evidence that mood modification increases craving for pornography, negative mood actually decreased craving. Further research is needed to test the various models of CSB.

Personal values clusters and their associations to social media behaviors and psychological well-being

The current study contributes to the literature by assessing the associations between personal values, explored with Schwartz`s Portrait Values Questionnaire, social media behaviors, assessed with Bergen Scale of Social Media Addiction and Social Media Motivations to Use Scale and psychological well-being assessed with Patient Health Questionnaire-4, in a sample of first-year medical students. It was examined medical students' personal values profiles and the perceived influence of social media on self-aspects. All participants (N = 151) were Romanian and English module students, young (average age = 19.2, SD = 1.5), 68,9% females and 31,1% males. Pearson coefficient correlation analyses were performed to verify the associations between the main four clusters of personal values (Self Transcendence, Self Enhancement, Openness to change and Conservationism) with social media behaviors and psychological wellbeing. The most frequent cluster of values was Self-Transcendence (M = 5.21) while the least was Self-Enhancement (M = 4.05). There was no significant correlation between social media addiction, psychological wellbeing and a specific cluster of values while the perception of self-aspects influenced by social media included involvement in community problems, creativity for Openness to change group (R = .24;.22, p < .05), tolerance towards sexual minorities and self-evaluation in Self Transcendence group (R = .24;.21;.42, p < .05) while Conservationism and Self Enhancement groups didn`t report any change. The findings highlight the need for awareness and education of medical students and general population in the field of Digital Ethics including social media complex impact on personal values as AI-algorithms may imply a potential destabilization and perpetual shaping of one`s behavior with still unpredictable individual and societal effects.

Sociocultural, Behavioral, and Physical Correlates of Excessive Social Media Use, Addiction, and Motivation Toward Reduction in a Hispanic College Student Sample

Social media use has been associated with adverse health consequences. However, there is limited research assessing correlates of social media use, addiction, failure to control use, and motivation to reduce use in a Hispanic sample. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing factors within the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Framework. Participants were Hispanic college students (n = 273) residing either in the United States or Mexico who completed an online survey. Univariate analyses determined independent variables to be assessed in four linear regression models. Results indicated that weekly social media use was negatively associated with sex, attentional impulsivity, and social comparison and positively associated with social media craving (SMC). Social media addiction was positively associated with frequency of posting in Spanish, Fear of Missing Out, SMC, and home restriction of social media use. Social media self-control failure was negatively associated with acculturative language and positively associated with frequency of posting in English, attentional impulsiveness, SMC, and home restriction of social media use. Motivation to reduce social media use was positively associated with residing in the United States. Clinical implications include targeting key factors through tailored interventions aimed at promoting adaptive social media use patterns.

U.S. Adolescents' Daily Social Media Use and Well-being: Exploring the Role of Addiction-like Social Media Use

Associations between adolescent social media use and well-being are inconclusive, and studies using rigorous methodologies and objective measures are needed. Additionally, attention on what individual differences may moderate linkages between social media and well-being is necessary. We tested 1) how daily social media use (assessed via ecological momentary objective and self-reports) relates to daily subjective well-being, 2) the prevalence and concordance between scholar-defined addiction-like social media use (ASMU) and participant perceptions of social media addiction, 3) how these constructs relate to subjective well-being, and 4) if these constructs moderate daily links between social media use and subjective well-being. In a sample of 103 adolescents (M age=16.48, 47% female), ASMU and perceived addiction were highly correlated but some adolescents' classification differed when cross-referencing. Both were similarly associated with demographics and depressive symptoms. Self-reported, but not objectively-recorded, social media use was related to greater ASMU and perceived addiction. Links between social media use and well-being were inconsistent, with no moderation by ASMU or perceived addiction. Most adolescents endorsed some degree of ASMU, and future research should examine how social media-triggered disruptions to daily functioning relates to well-being.

Problematic gaming, psychiatric comorbidities, and adolescence: A systematic review of the literature

Problematic gaming is particularly prevalent in adolescent and young adult populations. While numerous studies have investigated the psychiatric comorbidities of Internet Gaming Disorder in young adults, few have focused specifically on adolescents who might be especially at risk because developmental particularities related to this developmental period. Here, we conducted a review of the literature, in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, in order to highlight the types of psychiatric comorbidities found in adolescents with problematic gaming.. We selected and analyzed 30 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies which correspond to 3683 adolescents (63,27% of boys) worldwide with problematic gaming. Our results highlight the high prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adolescents with problematic gaming and the links between this addiction and inattention, anxiety, depression, behavioural and emotional problems. These psychiatric comorbidities interact with problematic gaming and predict it throughout the adolescent's development. Moreover, this interaction involves personality profile and environment, including parental education. The complexity of this interaction argues in favor of the multi-level assessment that we are promoting.

Who Finds Pornography Stressful? A Latent Profile Analysis

This study explores the connection between pornography use, sexual functioning, and mental health using latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify distinct profiles among pornography users and assess variations in mental health, including anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation. The aim of this study was to identify profiles among pornography users, specifically distinguishing those with sexual distress and sexual function problems, characterize these profiles, and assess variations in mental health. Data were collected from 463 participants through an anonymous online survey. Three distinct pornography user profiles were identified based on their consumption and sexual problems: high-frequency problematic pornography use (PPU, which is defined as uncontrollable patterns of pornography use resulting in adverse consequences and significant distress) with sexual problems, high-frequency non-PPU without/with low sexual problems, and no/low-frequency non-PPU without sexual problems. Differences among the profiles emerged in anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as emotion regulation capabilities. The high-frequency PPU with sexual problems group exhibited lower emotion regulation capabilities, while the no/low-frequency non-PPU without sexual problems group reported significantly lower depressive symptoms. This study emphasizes the multifaceted nature of pornography use, revealing that certain patterns may be more problematic. The findings highlight the interplay between emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, problematic pornography use, and sexual problems and distress. Recognizing these distinct profiles is crucial for understanding the relationship between pornography use and sexual and mental well-being, ultimately contributing to more targeted interventions and improved outcomes for all populations.

A comprehensive measure assessing different types of problematic use of the internet among Chinese adolescents: The Assessment of Criteria for Specific Internet-use Disorders (ACSID-11)

BACKGROUND

Problematic use of the internet (PUI) is prevalent, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Given the limited measures to assess specific types of PUI, which encompasses a broad spectrum of activities such as online gaming, social media use, pornography use, shopping, gambling, and web-streaming, Muller et al. (2022) developed the Assessment of Criteria for Specific Internet-use Disorders (ACSID-11) to comprehensively assess different types of PUI (i.e., gaming, shopping, social media use, gambling, and pornography use). The present study aimed to validate the Chinese ACSID-11 among adolescents incorporating cross-cultural adaptations.

METHODS

Using forward-backward translation method, a culturally adapted version of the ACSID-11 was prepared. Then, a cross-sectional online survey was administered between September 8 and September 26, 2023. Adolescents, using a convenience sample (N = 11,492; mean age = 16.42 years [SD ± 0.91]; 59.1% male), were recruited from six schools to complete the translated ACSID-11, Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form (IGDS9-SF), Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), and Smartphone Application Based Addiction Scale (SABAS) via an online platform. Pearson correlation coefficients assessed convergent/discriminant validity. Factor structure and measurement invariance were examined through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and multi-group CFA. Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega tested internal consistency.

RESULTS

Associations between the ACSID-11 components and other scales supported convergent validity (i.e., ACSID-11 gaming scale with IGDS9-SF [0.37 ≤ r ≤ 0.41]; social networks use scale with BSMAS [0.24 ≤ r ≤ 0.31]) and discriminant validity (i.e., online gambling scale with BSMAS [0.16 ≤ r ≤ 0.19] and with SABAS [0.11 ≤ r ≤ 0.13]). A four-factor solution indicated good fit with comparative fit index (CFI) ranging from 0.982 to 0.958. The ACSID-11 was measurement invariant across sexes (∆CFI = -0.001 to 0.000) and different levels of related addictive behaviors (∆CFI = -0.001 to 0.000). Both Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega (0.63 to 0.97) were acceptable for both frequency and intensity of responses.

CONCLUSIONS

The ACSID-11 is an appropriate scale to assess different kinds of PUI among Chinese adolescents and students. Psychometric assessment of the measure in other cultures and among clinical samples is recommended.

Work addiction and personality organization: Results from a representative, three-wave longitudinal study

BACKGROUND

Several studies have explored the relationship between personality and work addiction, suggesting that individuals with certain mental disorders, including personality disorders such as obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), may be more prone to work addiction. However, the characterization of personality organization (PO) among workaholics and its contribution to the persistence of work addiction remains unclear.

METHODS

In this longitudinal study of a representative sample of young adults (N = 1748), we applied the Bergen Work Addiction Scale and the Inventory of Personality Organization.

RESULTS

We found significant correlations between work addiction and identity diffusion, primitive psychological defenses, reality testing, and overall personality disorganization across three waves. A latent class growth analysis revealed three profiles: no work addiction, increasing work addiction, and constant moderate work addiction. Multinomial logistic regression analysis indicated that higher levels of personality disorganization in wave 1 and increases in personality disorganization between waves 1 and 3 were associated with higher odds of belonging to the increasing work addiction group. Similarly, higher overall personality disorganization in wave 1 was associated with higher odds of belonging to the constant moderate work addiction group.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that individuals with chronic work addiction have lower levels of PO, and PO declines as work addiction persists. Screenings for work addiction are recommended to prevent potential mental health issues. Future research should explore the influence of workplace characteristics and work motivations on the association between work addiction and personality disorders.

How depression and ADHD relate to exercise addiction: a cross-sectional study among frequent exercisers

Background

To date, there are no official diagnostic criteria for the frequently reported phenomenon of exercise addiction. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate how mental disorders, specifically depression and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are related to exercise addiction (EA).

Methods

A total of 173 participants aged between 18 and 70 years, who reported exercising more than 10 h a week and continued to exercise despite injury or illness, answered questionnaires including the Exercise Dependence Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Homburger ADHD scale for adults. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed adjusting for relevant confounders (age, gender) and stepwise regression was used to identify which of the two mental disorders is the more influential predictor of EA.

Results

Pearson correlation analysis showed that depressive symptoms [r (171) = 0.422, p < 0.00] and ADHD symptoms [r (171) = 0.308, p < 0.001] were positively correlated with EA symptoms. The relation between depressive symptoms and EA remained after adjusting for confounders in the regression model (B = 20.531; t(170) = 5.950; 95% CI [13.719, 27.343]; p < 0.001). Similarly, the positive link between ADHD symptoms and EA persisted after controlling for confounders (B = 15.507; t(170) = 3.771; 95% CI [7.389, 23.625]; p < 0.001). Additionally, a stepwise regression model identified that depressive symptoms are a stronger predictor for EA than ADHD symptoms.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms seem to be a stronger predictor for EA compared to ADHD symptoms in frequent exercisers. Although individuals with ADHD May exercise extensively, they might be less at risk for EA than individuals with depression. These results contribute to the complex characterization of the psychiatric profile of individuals with exercise addiction, and underline the need for further research elucidating the interplay between mental disorders and EA.

Studyholism and Attachment Style: A Study among Italian University Students

Studyholism (or obsession with studying) is a new potential clinical condition introduced in the literature in 2017. Since then, growing research has supported its conceptualization as a clinical disorder and highlighted some potential intervention targets, namely trait worry, social anxiety, negative interpretation bias, and defense mechanisms. The present study aims to extend the literature concerning psychodynamic-related constructs that might constitute targets for interventions aimed at reducing Studyholism by investigating the role of attachment in 1073 students (Mage = 23.48 ± 3.77), balanced concerning civil status (i.e., currently being single or involved in a relationship/non-single). Among the main findings, we found that insecure attachment-mainly preoccupied attachment-is a positive predictor of Studyholism in both non-single and single students. However, there are also some differences depending on the civil status. Finally, (single) disengaged studyholics have a statistically significant lower level of secure attachment than (single) engaged studyholics. In conclusion, this study showed the value of distinguishing between non-single and single students when investigating the role of attachment. Regarding problematic overstudying specifically, the study provided support for its definition as a clinical disorder, also with evidence of the appropriateness of its OCD-related conceptualization. Finally, it suggests preoccupied (insecure) attachment as a target to reduce Studyholism by fostering in students the feeling of being loved and deserving of being loved in their current adult relationships.

Understanding the Emergence of Comorbidity between Problematic Online Gaming and Gambling: A Network Analysis Approach

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Problematic online gaming and gambling tend to co-occur. The exact mechanisms underlying this phenomenon and the potential effects of gender differences remain unknown. This study aimed to identify the early clustering patterns of problematic online gaming and gambling in a community sample of young adults without a lifetime history of psychiatric treatment.

METHODS

Data were collected through an online survey and analyzed using partial correlations and Bayesian networks.

RESULTS

Altogether, 1441 individuals (aged 18-40 years, 51.4% females) participated in the survey. Both problematic online behaviors were weakly interrelated, suggesting that they serve as distinct constructs. Men's networks appeared to be more complex and had significantly higher global connectivity. Moreover, men and women differed with respect to the specific nodes that bridged both constructs. In men, the bridge nodes were "being criticized because of betting or being told about gambling problems", "loss of previous interests due to gaming", "deceiving other people because of gaming", and "health consequences of gambling". Among women, the bridge nodes were "feeling guilty because of gambling", "loss of previous interests because of gaming", "social consequences of gaming", and "continued gaming problems with other people". In men, the strongest edge was found between "borrowing money/selling anything to gamble" and "financial problems because of gambling", while in women, the strongest edge appeared between "betting more than afforded to be lost" and "tolerance symptoms of gambling".

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that problematic online gaming and gambling tend to emerge in different ways among men and women. Therapeutic interventions should be planned considering gender differences.

Role of Worry in Addiction: Implication of Metacognitive Beliefs and Type 2 Worry

INTRODUCTION

According to the self-medication hypothesis, worriers use substances to cope with their symptoms; however, some published results have challenged this hypothesis. The aim of this study is to show if worry increases the risk of SUD when it is negatively appraised by negative metacognitive beliefs.

METHOD

We recruited three samples: 68 patients with a severe AUD, 27 patients dependent on eating and 42 control participants. We used the Yale Food Addiction Scale-2, the Metacognitions Questionnaire-65, the UPPS-P Impulsive Behaviour Scale and the Anxiety Thoughts Inventory.

RESULTS

We confirmed a direct effect of worries and metaworry on alcohol (AUD) and eating addiction (EA), but our multivariate analyses revealed that metacognitive beliefs and metaworry are the most robust predictors of alcohol and eating addiction.

DISCUSSION

We reported substance-related differences in the relationship between worry and addiction. AUD is related to the metacognitive activity set in motion by worries while EA is associated with a maladaptive form of worry (meta-worry) where worries are negatively interpreted.

Neuropsychological Deficits in Disordered Screen Use Behaviours: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Over the last few decades, excessive and disordered screen use has become more prevalent, prompting investigations into its associated consequences. The extent to which disordered screen use behaviours impact neuropsychological functioning has been reportedly mixed and at times inconsistent. This review sought to synthesise the literature and estimate the magnitude of overall cognitive impairment across a wide range of disordered screen use behaviours. We also sought to determine the cognitive domains most impacted, and whether the observed impairments were moderated by the classification of screen-related behaviours (i.e., Internet or gaming) or the format of cognitive test administration (i.e., paper-and-pencil or computerised). A systematic search of databases (Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE) identified 43 cross-sectional articles that assessed neuropsychological performance in disordered screen use populations, 34 of which were included in the meta-analysis. A random-effects meta-analysis revealed significant small/medium (g = .38) cognitive deficits for individuals with disordered screen use behaviours relative to controls. The most affected cognitive domain with a significant medium effect size (g = .50) was attention and focus followed by a significant reduction in executive functioning (g = .31). The classification of disordered screen use behaviours into Internet or gaming categories or the format of cognitive testing did not moderate these deficits. Additionally, excluding disordered social media use in an exploratory analysis had little effect on the observed outcomes. This study highlights a number of methodological considerations that may have contributed to disparate findings and shows that disordered screen use can significantly impact cognitive performance. Recommendations for future research are also discussed. Data for this study can be found at https://osf.io/upeha/ .

Impact of Social Media Addiction Among Medical Students on Their Social Interaction, Well-Being, and Personality: A Comparative Study

Background Social media addiction has emerged as a growing concern, particularly among young adults, including medical students who face unique stressors and demands. The widespread usage of social media platforms can lead to addictive behaviors affecting mental health, academic performance, and interpersonal relationships. Understanding the relationship between social media addiction, personality traits, social interaction, and overall well-being is crucial for developing effective interventions to support this vulnerable group. Aim To study the relationship of social media addiction with social interaction, well-being, and personality in medical students. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 students from a medical institution, including both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Data were collected through an online survey, administered via Google Forms. Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMA-SF), Social Interaction Anxiety Scale and Social Phobia Scale, Medical Student Well-Being Index (MSWBI), Three-Item Loneliness Scale (T-ILS), and Short Big Five Inventory Scale (BFI-10) were applied to all the participants. Results A total of 292 medical students participated in the study, comprising 122 males and 170 females. The analysis revealed that both male and female students exhibit similar levels of susceptibility to social media addiction, as evidenced by comparable scores on measures of social media addiction, social interaction anxiety, social phobia, loneliness, well-being, and personality traits. Regression analysis identified time spent on social media and agreeableness as significant predictors of social media addiction, with no signs of multicollinearity. These findings indicate that male and female medical students share similar psychological profiles, highlighting critical factors that influence social media usage within this population. Conclusion This study highlights a significant prevalence of social media addiction among medical students, affecting 76.7% (n = 224) of participants, with slightly higher rates observed among females (n = 132, 78%) compared to males (n = 92, 72%). This addiction correlates with adverse psychological traits such as heightened social interaction anxiety, social phobia, and loneliness, along with personality traits like neuroticism. Both genders exhibit similar susceptibility to addiction, influenced by factors such as time spent socializing and agreeableness. Addressing these findings through targeted interventions could improve medical students' overall well-being and mental health outcomes, underscoring the need for further research and effective strategies in academic settings.

Selective Classes and Early Health Inequalities in Comprehensive Schools in Finland

BACKGROUND

The origin of inequalities in health outcomes has been explained by health selection and social causation models. Health selection processes operate particularly at school age. We study, if student allocation to teaching groups with aptitude tests (selective vs general class) differentiates adolescents by health behaviors and mental health.

METHODS

Finnish schoolchildren 12-13 years from 12 selective classes, n = 248; 41 general classes, n = 703 answered a questionnaire on addictive products (tobacco, snus, alcohol, and energy drinks), digital media use, and mental health (health complaints, anxiety, and depression). Structural equation modeling was conducted to identify structures between outcomes, SEP (socioeconomic position), class type, and academic performance.

RESULTS

Students in the selective classes reported less addictive digital media and addictive products use than students in the general classes. Differences in academic performance or SEP between the class types did not solely explain these differences. Mental health was not related to the class type. SEP was indirectly associated with health behaviors via the class type and academic performance.

CONCLUSIONS

Selecting students to permanent teaching groups with aptitude tests differentiates students according to risky health behaviors. The impact of education policies using student grouping should also be evaluated in terms of students' health.

Social Media Escapism in Poland: Adaptation of a Measure and its Relationship With Thought Suppression and Mental Health

Research indicates that social media use can lead to addiction, fear of missing out, higher stress levels, anxiety, and experiencing symptoms typical of depression. The purpose of the present study was to conduct a Polish adaptation of the Social Media Escapism Scale and to assess its associations with fear of missing out, Facebook addiction, thought suppression, and the experience of stress, anxiety, and symptoms typical of depression. Two studies were conducted, the first adaptive and the second testing associations. The first study included 383 participants aged 18 to 63 (M = 23.51; SD = 5.7). To adapt the scale, the following were used: the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale, the fear of missing out Scale, and the demographic questionnaire. The second study included 417 participants aged 18 to 60 (M = 26.33; SD = 9.7). The study tested relationships using the same three scales used in the first study, and also Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale, and the White Bear Suppression Scale. The Polish version of the Social Media Escapism Scale revealed a univariate structure with strong internal consistency (α = .91). The adapted scale was associated with fear of missing out and Facebook addiction. In study 2, the structural equation modeling analyses revealed that fear of missing out, Facebook addiction and escapism were positively related to thought suppression and the experience of anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms. In addition, thought suppression partially mediated the relationship between harmful media use and anxiety, stress, and depression. Furthermore, the findings reveal a positive correlation between escapism and several psychological constructs, including fear of missing out, Facebook addiction, as well as aspects of depression and suppression, thereby lending support to the convergent validity of the adapted measure under investigation. The results can be used in psychological intervention and developing support and treatment programs for social network addiction.

Validation of an Instrument for Detecting Problematic Internet Use in Adolescents

Problematic internet use (PIU) has drawn attention due to its potentially negative consequences on individuals' social and personal lives. At present, a consensus on diagnostic criteria for problematic internet use remains elusive, leaving uncertainty regarding its classification as a distinct mental disorder. Extensive research efforts are underway to investigate its underlying causes, risk factors, and correlated adverse consequences. Nonetheless, research on problematic internet use (PIU) frequently faces challenges due to the absence of consistent and dependable evaluation methods, with many existing assessment tools lacking a solid theoretical basis. This study introduces a novel instrument that incorporates positive emotional regulation along with negative emotional regulation, compulsive use, and cognitive preoccupation, all crucial aspects of PIU. The study involved 3054 adolescents from Madrid, Spain, and employed exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to validate the instrument's structure. The resulting four-factor model includes Positive Emotional Regulation, Negative Emotional Regulation, Compulsive Use, and Cognitive Preoccupation. The instrument demonstrates good internal consistency and an association with risk factors, as evidenced by correlations with time spent on various internet-related activities. This comprehensive tool enhances our understanding of PIU and its underlying cognitive and emotional processes and provides a valuable resource for assessing and addressing problematic internet use in adolescents.

Linking Self-Esteem to Problematic Mobile Phone Use: A Moderated Mediation Model of Fear of Missing Out and Ruminative Subtypes

Low self-esteem has been identified as a risk factor for problematic mobile phone use (PMPU). However, the magnitude of self-esteem's effect on PMPU varied across different studies. Drawing on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution model and the response styles theory, this study developed a moderated mediation model to investigate the mediating role of fear of missing out (FoMO) and the moderating roles of ruminative subtypes (i.e., brooding and reflection) in the relationship between self-esteem and PMPU. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 806 undergraduate students (Mage = 19.35 years, SD = 1.18) using the convenience sampling method. Results showed that self-esteem was negatively associated with PMPU. Mediation analysis revealed that the association between self-esteem and PMPU was mediated by FoMO. Furthermore, moderated mediation analyses revealed that the mediating effect of FoMO was moderated by both brooding and reflection, such that the indirect effect became stronger for individuals with higher levels of brooding/reflection. These findings add to previous research by shedding light on how (i.e., mediation) and under what conditions (i.e., moderation) self-esteem is associated with PMPU and have implications for early prevention and intervention of individual PMPU.

Studyholism as a New Potential OCD-Related Disorder: What Evidence Have We Gathered until Now? A Narrative Review

In 2017, Loscalzo and Giannini introduced the new potential clinical condition of studyholism (or obsession toward study) and a comprehensive model including its possible antecedents and outcomes. Then, emphasizing the value of avoiding an aprioristic (addiction) framework in analyzing problematic overstudying, they suggested conducting research on this new construct to unveil its internalizing and/or externalizing nature while also avoiding the over-pathologizing of a common behavior such as studying. Seven years after the first publication about studyholism, growing evidence concerning its antecedents suggested that studyholism might be defined as an OCD-related disorder (or, more generally, as an internalizing disorder). Moreover, the research about its outcomes highlighted that it is a problem behavior deserving attention as it is associated with academic, psychological, physical, and social downsides. Therefore, this paper aims to review the scientific literature published concerning studyholism to illuminate if it might be conceptualized as an OCD-related disorder based on its symptomatology, antecedents, and impact on individuals' academic, physical, and psychological functioning. Given that it is a new construct, it is of critical value to systematize the findings gathered until now as it can help scholars interested in students' well-being to have a clear understanding concerning the importance of screening studyholism since childhood, as this will help favor academic success and well-being and reduce the risk for school dropout. Finally, this paper presents an agenda for future research on studyholism, and it highlights the importance of further analyzing problematic overstudying using different theoretical perspectives (such as the behavioral addiction conceptualization) to unveil its real nature.

The enduring echoes of juvenile bullying: the role of self-esteem and loneliness in the relationship between bullying and social media addiction across generations X, Y, Z

Objective

Being bullied is a profoundly distressing experience for children and adolescents, with the potential for adverse mental and behavioral outcomes throughout their adult years. This study aims to explore the association between juvenile bullying, self-esteem, loneliness, and social media addiction among men across three generational cohorts: X, Y, and Z.

Method

The study utilized an online survey, administering structured questionnaires to 797 men aged 18-58 divided into three generational cohorts: 142 individuals from Gen X (born between 1965 and 1980), 275 from Gen Y (born between 1981 and 1996), and 380 from Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2005).

Results

The findings demonstrate that across all three generations, there was a positive correlation between experiencing bullying in one's youth and social media addiction in adulthood. Among Gen X, self-esteem did not act as a mediator in this relationship, nor did loneliness moderate the links between bullying and social media addiction, or between self-esteem and social media addiction. However, for Gen Y and Z, self-esteem was found to mediate the relationship between bullying and social media addiction. Loneliness moderated the association between self-esteem and social media addiction in Gen Y and the association between bullying and social media addiction in Gen Z.

Conclusion

The differences observed among generational cohorts can be attributed to changes in masculinity norms, the evolution of bullying types, and the rapid development of social media platforms, catering to the distinct needs and gratifications of each generation.

The Association Between Neuroticism and Problematic Social Networking Sites Use: The Role of Fear of Missing out and Self-Control

Problematic use of social networking sites (SNS) has a negative impact on mental health. It has been found that people who score high on neuroticism are especially vulnerable towards engaging with SNS in a problematic way but it is not clear which psychological mechanisms explain this relationship. We addressed this issue by examining the mediating role of fear of missing out and self-control in the relationship between neuroticism and problematic SNS use. For this purpose, we conducted a cross-sectional study (n = 151, 69.5% female, Mage = 26.23, SD = 7.52) and tested for parallel mediation using structural equation modelling. Neuroticism was found to be predictive of increased levels of problematic SNS use. Moreover, neuroticism was associated with both increased levels of fear of missing out and decreased levels of self-control. However, only fear of missing out was found to robustly mediate the relationship between neuroticism and problematic use of SNS. These findings suggest that fear of missing out could be an intervention target to prevent people scoring high on neuroticism from engaging in problematic SNS use.

How do social and parasocial relationships on TikTok impact the well-being of university students? The roles of algorithm awareness and compulsive use

Social media now has emerged as one of the most widely used communication channels. The objective of this work is to verify the factors that influence the compulsive use of TikTok, as well as the mediating role of algorithm awareness, and to identify the predictors of well-being related to the use of TikTok. In the present work, the relevance of the study of PSRs and FoMO that affect the compulsive use of TikTok in young people is discussed. A total of 379 young university students (56.7 % girls) between 15 and 25 years old (M = 19.80; S.D. = 1.49) were surveyed using self-reports. Data treatment followed serial mediation through structural equation modeling. The results showed that exist significant relationships between these variables. Likewise, they reinforce the understanding of the diversity of the mechanisms of social and parasocial motivations on compulsive use and well-being. The results highlight the need to strengthen the training and education of young people in the appropriate and regulated use of TikTok in the university setting.

Social Media Use and Consumption of Prescription-Free Medications for Anxiety, Sleep, and Pain among Norwegian University Students

A relationship has been recognized between social media use and health issues. However, no studies have explored the potential link between social media use and consumption of over-the-counter (OTC) medications. We examined social media use, self-reported anxiety, depression, sleep problems, pain, and OTC medications use among Norwegian university students. The goal was to gain insights that would guide preventive health strategies for this target group. A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted with an online questionnaire distributed to university student Facebook groups in Norway. A total of 132 completed surveys were analyzed. Among the respondents, 28% experienced anxiety, 35% depression, 64% sleep problems, 71% headaches, and 78% musculoskeletal pain. Moreover, 56% reported using OTC analgesics or sleep aids, mostly purchased from community pharmacies. No statistically significant correlation was found between social media use and headache, musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbances, or consumption of OTC medications among university students in Norway. The findings, however, demonstrated a positive trend, highlighting the need for further research with larger, more diverse samples, and potentially employing a qualitative or longitudinal design. We propose increased awareness of the potential negative effects of social media among university students, the inclusion of social media and health topics in study curricula, and the more proactive engagement of community pharmacists with young clients concerning the consumption of OTC medications.

Wellbeing and Problematic Smartphone Use: Serial Mediation of Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

The relationship between wellbeing and Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) has been explored in the past, however, the role of the potential mediators of this association is a relatively neglected area of research. Therefore, the current study examined mindfulness and self-compassion as mediators of the relationship between wellbeing and PSU in 220 university students. WHO-5 Wellbeing Index, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale- State, Self-Compassion Scale- Short form and Smartphone Addiction Scale- Short version were used for assessing wellbeing, mindfulness, self-compassion, and PSU respectively. Wellbeing had a direct and indirect effect on PSU. In addition, results supported a serial mediation model where wellbeing was found to influence PSU via mindfulness and self-compassion in a sequential manner. The results expanded the Compensatory Internet Use Theory (CIUT) to understand PSU and have implications for the management of PSU.

Problematic series watching and alcohol consumption among global audiences of Korean Drama in Israel and Indonesia

Korean dramas (K-dramas), with their unique characteristics, often encourage binge-watching. Moreover, the cultural norms and rituals surrounding alcohol, prevalent in South Korea, are mirrored in K-dramas that have gained global audiences in recent years. The present study aimed to examine problematic K-drama series watching, and the potential associations with alcohol consumption among global adult audiences from Israel and Indonesia. An online questionnaire was distributed to a non-probability convenience sample of 638 adult viewers of K-drama, of whom 383 (60%) were Indonesian and 255 (40%) were Israeli. Fifteen percent of the audiences were identified as displaying problematic K-drama series watching, 36% reported ever drinking Soju (the traditional unique Korean drink), 41% reported drinking alcohol in the past 3 months, and 24% reported binge drinking in the past 12 months. Participants who were higher in problematic K-drama series watching were more likely to be involved with drinking Soju, drinking alcohol in the past 3 months, and binge drinking in the last year. Indonesians and Israelis have significantly different viewing patterns and alcohol consumption. 21.2% of Israelis identified as problematic K-drama series watching compared to 10.7% of Indonesians. Greater percentage of the Israelis have reported consumption of alcohol than Indonesians. Multiple linear regression for problematic K-drama series watching revealed that Israeli audiences, younger age, being defined as a fan, being a member of a K-drama social network, higher number of weekly hours spent watching, and greater number of dramas being watched per month were associated with more problematic K-drama series watching. Series binge-watching may entail potentially negative health and social consequences and professionals should pay more attention to this type of problematic behavior. The identification of problematic K-drama series watching and its association with increased alcohol consumption, suggests the need for health policymakers to consider cultural influences on media alcohol messages consumption.

Validation of the ACSID-11 for consistent screening of specific Internet-use disorders based on ICD-11 criteria for gaming disorder: A multitrait-multimethod approach

INTRODUCTION

With the inclusion of gaming disorder in the ICD-11, diagnostic criteria were introduced for this relatively new disorder. These criteria may be applied to other potential specific Internet-use disorders. The 11-item Assessment of Criteria for Specific Internet-use Disorders (ACSID-11) was developed for consistent screening of gaming disorder, online buying-shopping disorder, online pornography-use disorder, social networks-use disorder, and online gambling disorder. This study tested the construct validity of the ACSID-11, including convergent and divergent measures.

METHODS

The ACSID-11 measures five behavioral addictions with the same set of items by following the principles of the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). The ACSID-11 was administered to a convenience sample of active Internet users (N = 1597) together with validated and established measures of each specific Internet-use disorder along with screeners for mental health. Included are the Ten-Item Internet Gaming Disorder Test (IGDT-10), the Bergen Shopping Addiction Scale (BSAS), the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS), the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and the Berlin Inventory of Gambling behavior - Screening (BIG-S). The ACSID-11 was compared convergently and divergently through a multitrait-multimethod approach along with contingency tables with the other Internet-use disorder screeners.

RESULTS

The multitrait-multimethod results shows that each behavior assessed with the ACSID-11 has moderate to strong correlations (r's from 0.462 to 0.609) with the scores of the corresponding established measures and, furthermore, positive correlations (r's from 0.122 to 0.434) with measures of psychological distress and further shows that the ACSID-11 can be used for a comprehensive assessment of different behaviors. The contingency tables reveal large divergences between the ACSID-11 and other screening instruments concerning the classification of problematic specific Internet use based on the given cut-off values.

CONCLUSION

The current work provides additional validation for the ACSID-11. Accordingly, this tool can be considered as reliable and valid for the simultaneous assessment of different Internet-use disorders: gaming disorder, online buying-shopping disorder, online pornography use disorder, social networks use disorder, and online gambling disorder. With a subsequent clinical validation of the scale and the proposed cut-off score, the ACSID-11 will be a thoroughly validated useful screening tool for clinical practice.

The "Vicious Circle of addictive Social Media Use and Mental Health" Model

Social media use (SMU) is a significant part of many people's everyday life. Research around the globe describes an increase of addictive SMU tendencies since the COVID-19 outbreak. The present work combines available findings in the "Vicious Circle of addictive Social Media Use and Mental Health" model to explain how social media (SM) activity can contribute to the development of addictive tendencies, which consequences they have for mental health, and how to prevent them. Following the model, the interplay between the risk factors negative experiences caused by daily hassles and by unexpected global and traumatic events, SMU (dimension "quality"), and SM flow can directly contribute to addictive SMU through the "vicious circle". Time spent on SMU (dimension "quantity"), symptoms of depression and anxiety, and the personality trait narcissism contribute to the circle as moderators. Symptoms of stress, insomnia, and suicide-related outcomes are described as potential consequences of addictive SMU. Based on longitudinal intervention studies, a conscious reduction of SMU time and an increase of physical activity, as well as positive mental health and mindfulness are identified as protective factors that reduce the risk of addictive tendencies. The model contributes to a better understanding of addictive SMU. Implications of the model for future research and praxis, specifically for mental health programs and therapeutic treatment are discussed.

Stress and compulsive buying-shopping disorder: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Theoretical frameworks of behavioral addictions mostly acknowledge the role of stress in the development and maintenance of these disorders, models of compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD) however rarely incorporated stress. The association between stress and CBSD has not been reviewed yet.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted to evaluate empirical results on the association between stress and CBSD. A comprehensive search string was employed in three databases.

RESULTS

16 studies were included. Correlative studies suggested significant correlations between general perceived stress and CBSD symptom severity. Studies involving mean comparisons found higher general perceived stress levels in persons with problematic buying-shopping behavior/CBSD compared to control participants (large effects). Mixed results were found in studies involving regression/structural equation models and ecological momentary assessments. One study with a stress/negative mood induction observed more CBSD symptoms in a high stress group compared to a low stress group.

DISCUSSION

The studies are heterogeneous concerning design, samples and measures. Only very few studies surpass the level of cross-sectional correlative data which limits the ability to draw clear conclusions. Future research should study the impact of experimentally induced stress on CBSD symptoms, examine the relationship between stress and CBSD longitudinally and assess objective stress markers.

How adolescents lose control over social networks: A process-based approach to problematic social network use

Social networks (SNs) are immensely popular, especially among teenagers, yet our understanding of problematic SNs remains limited. Understanding motivations and patterns of use is crucial given the current prevalence of problematic SNs use. Perarles et al. (2020) distinguish two behavioral control modes: Model-Free Control, where actions are characterized by actions driven by immediate gratification without reflective consideration for long-term consequences, and Model-Based Control, enabling planned and goal-directed actions. Both control modes can lead to problematic social network use. This study aims to delve into problematic SNs use and the underlying motives behind adolescents' participation in SNs, drawing upon the theoretical proposal by Perales et al. (2020). We conducted four focus groups with adolescents aged 13-17 (50 % female; Mage = 14.5, SD = 1.75), comprising two public school and two Catholic private school groups. Thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software revealed three themes. The first uncovers characteristics of problematic SNs use, including withdrawal, increased usage time, impaired control, behavioral salience and attentional capture and cognitive hijacking. The second spotlights motives, emphasizing emotional regulation, finding out what is going on, and social interaction. The third theme explores consequences such as compromised academic performance and physical harm. In conclusion, addressing both motives and problematic behaviors present a more effective approach to confronting SNs use challenges and fostering healthier online experiences for adolescents.

Online Games and Cognitive Distortions: A Comparative Analysis in Students with and without Disabilities

Online games have experienced significant growth in recent years, with gaming becoming a popular form of entertainment for people of all ages. However, their impact on cognition, especially among vulnerable groups such as students with disabilities, is a topic that requires deeper exploration. The objectives of this study are twofold: firstly, to understand the typology of risk players (non-risk players, players with problems, and pathological players); and secondly, to compare cognitive distortions among students with problematic profiles. Both objectives will be analyzed based on the presence or absence of disability. A total of 704 students from various Spanish universities (135 with disabilities and 569 without disabilities), aged between 18 and 38, participated in the study by completing the Gamblers Belief Questionnaire (GBQ), aimed at measuring cognitive distortions related to gambling problems, as well as the Massachusetts Gambling Screen questionnaire, aimed at measuring gambling addiction. The results indicate a higher percentage of students with disabilities showing a greater risk profile for addiction. Additionally, this group of students exhibits more cognitive distortions. These findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing online gaming addiction and cognitive distortions among university students, with and without disabilities. Preventive measures are necessary, such as education on responsible technology use and the promotion of alternative activities. Moreover, specific intervention strategies need to be developed, including access to psychological health services for this student population.

Work addiction risk, stress and well-being at work: testing the mediating role of sleep quality

Introduction

Attention to work addiction risk is growing; however, more studies are needed to explore the possible impact of work addiction risk on various aspects of employees' work and life domains. Although several studies have considered the antecedents or consequences of work addiction risk, this study particularly focuses on sleep quality as a potential explanatory underlying mechanism in the relation between work addition risk and three outcome variables including stress at home, stress at work and well-being.

Method

The data was collected using an online platform and participants consisted of 188 French employees who were selected using simple random sampling method. Participants responded to the survey including the Work Addiction Risk Test (WART), stress at work, well-being, and sleep quality. The data was analyzed using JASP and SPSS-26 programs.

Results

The results revealed that there are significant positive relationships between work addiction risk and both stress at home and at work and negative relationships between work addiction risk and both sleep quality and well-being. In addition, the analyses of the mediation paths suggest the significant mediation role of sleep quality for the link between work addition risk and stress at work as well as the link between work addiction risk and well-being.

Discussion

Given the verified mediating role of sleep quality in the relationship between work addiction, stress and wellbeing, it is recommended that organizations and companies pay particular attention to their employees' sleep quality.